Simple One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner 🍗🍇✨
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a flavorful, nutritious, and easy chicken dinner, this balsamic chicken recipe is perfect. Known for its rich balsamic glaze that creates a savory-sweet flavor profile, this dish is a quick and satisfying way to elevate your weeknight meals. The beauty of this balsamic vinegar chicken recipe is that it requires just a single pan, making cleanup a breeze while delivering a tender, caramelized result. Whether you’re a busy parent or a home chef, this easy chicken dinner will become a favorite in your culinary arsenal.
2. Ingredients for a Perfect Balsamic Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker (for marinating optional in advanced prep)
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Balsamic Chicken
Preparing the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs if using. This helps develop flavor right from the start.
Making the Balsamic Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey. Set aside while you prepare the chicken.
Searing the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Creating the Balsamic Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the balsamic-honey mixture over the chicken. Add the minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, spooning the glaze over the chicken, until it thickens slightly.
Serving the Balsamic Chicken
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve the balsamic-glazed chicken hot with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or your favorite grain. Discover more inspiring recipes like Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for an even more delightful dinner.
4. Storage and Leftovers Tips
Leftover balsamic chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to a month. To avoid drying out, reheat with a splash of water or chicken broth and cover tightly.
5. Serving Suggestions for Your Balsamic Chicken Dinner
- Pair with roasted vegetables or sautéed greens for added nutrition.
- Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy rice pilaf.
- Enjoy with a fresh mixed greens salad drizzled with a simple vinaigrette.
- For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese on top.
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Balsamic Chicken
Can I use balsamic glaze instead of vinegar?
While balsamic glaze is thicker and sweeter, it can be used in small amounts to add extra richness. However, for the sauce, pure balsamic vinegar provides the best flavor balance.
What are good substitutions for honey if I want a vegan option?
Maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut nectar work well as vegan substitutes for honey in this recipe.
How long does it take to prepare this balsamic chicken?
The prep time is approximately 10 minutes, with a total cooking time of about 20 minutes, making this an easy chicken dinner for busy weeknights.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately and reheat when needed. The flavors even deepen after a day or two.
7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Makes cooking and cleanup effortless, ensuring your pan distributes heat evenly for perfect searing.
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Useful if you want to prepare accompanying vegetables quickly and efficiently for serving alongside your balsamic chicken.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Keep refreshing drinks on hand to complement your meal.
- Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 – Prepare crispy sides or even reheat leftovers to keep your meal delicious.
8. Exploring More Easy and Delicious Chicken Recipes
If you enjoy this easy chicken dinner, check out more recipes like the Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta or the Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. These dishes are equally flavorful and perfect for busy days.
9. Conclusion
This balsamic chicken recipe offers a simple, flavorful, and satisfying easy chicken dinner option that can be prepared in just one pan. Its rich balsamic glaze creates a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, elevating ordinary chicken breasts into a gourmet experience. Try it tonight and enjoy a healthy, homemade meal that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor!
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Simple One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
A simple and flavorful balsamic chicken cooked in one pan, topped with fresh herbs, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish
- Optional vegetables like cherry tomatoes or green beans
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic.
- Pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken in the skillet.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Notes
- For added flavor, marinate chicken in balsamic mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Serve with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 340 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg